The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held its Quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Thursday, 5 February 2026.
The meeting, hosted in an atmosphere of calm and renewed confidence, marked not only a significant gathering of the leadership of the Bar but also a moment to celebrate the remarkable progress of the Borno State Judiciary in recent times.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of brand-new official vehicles to Magistrates and Sharia Court Judges by His Excellency, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.
The vehicles were formally handed over by the Chief Judge of Borno State, Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah, OFR, in the presence of the 32nd President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, members of the National Executive Committee, and distinguished members of the Bar.
In his presentation, the Chief Judge explained that the initiative forms part of deliberate efforts to strengthen the judiciary and complement the tireless work of judges of the lower bench.
He noted that Magistrates and Sharia Court Judges play a critical role in the administration of justice, as they are often the first point of contact for citizens.
Providing them with official vehicles enhances their efficiency, mobility, and dignity, while reinforcing judicial independence.
Beyond transportation, the Borno State Judiciary also commissioned a gym and sports centre, as well as a crèche, for the benefit of judicial officers and staff.
According to the Chief Judge, these facilities are designed to promote staff welfare, physical well-being, and work-life balance.
The crèche, in particular, underscores the judiciary’s commitment to supporting female judges and judiciary staff, creating an enabling environment that encourages women’s participation and leadership within the justice sector.
In recent years, the Borno State Judiciary has recorded notable achievements despite operating in a challenging environment.
Through improved infrastructure, enhanced welfare, and strong institutional leadership, the judiciary has continued to deliver justice effectively and with growing public confidence.
These reforms have contributed to improved morale among judicial officers, faster administration of justice, and a stronger perception of judicial independence in the State.
The latest interventions by the Borno State Government further consolidate these gains and reflect a clear understanding that a strong judiciary is foundational to peace, security, and good governance.
Commending the initiative, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the support extended to the judiciary by the Borno State Government as a bold and commendable testament to its commitment to the rule of law.
He noted that the initiative aligns squarely with the objectives of the NBA to promote judicial integrity, strengthen institutions, and advance inclusivity particularly in enhancing the participation of women in leadership within the justice system.
The NBA President emphasized that strong collaboration between the Bar and the Bench remains essential to building a credible and effective justice system.
According to him, when judicial officers are adequately supported and the legal profession works in partnership with the courts, the result is improved justice delivery and increased public trust in the legal system.
The successful hosting of the NBA NEC Meeting in Maiduguri also reinforces a new and positive narrative about the city.
Once viewed through the lens of insecurity, Maiduguri today stands as a peaceful, welcoming, and viable destination for legal practice and professional engagement.
The presence of senior lawyers, NBA leaders, and delegates from across the country without incident is a strong testament to the improved security and stability in Borno State.
For the legal profession, this development sends a powerful message: Maiduguri is open, safe, and ready to host national legal events and practitioners.
The presentation of vehicles, the commissioning of welfare facilities, and the successful hosting of the NBA NEC Meeting collectively highlight a judiciary on a path of renewal and progress.
Borno State’s commitment to strengthening its judiciary not only boosts confidence within the justice system but also deepens cooperation between the Bar and the Bench.
As the Nigerian Bar Association continues to champion the rule of law nationwide, the developments in Borno State stand as a model of how purposeful leadership, institutional support, and collaboration can transform the justice sector and reshape perceptions both locally and nationally.
(Henry Barnabas Ehi, MICA is the Assistant General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association and a partner at Maxon & Prime Legal)
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